Skillet Cinnamon Apples is a delicious and healthy dessert or side dish that features sliced apples cooked with warm cinnamon and a touch of sweetness. This dish is not only tasty but also quite nutritious, making it a popular choice among food enthusiasts who appreciate both flavor and health benefits.
History:
The history of Skillet Cinnamon Apples isn’t well-documented, but apples themselves have a long history of cultivation dating back thousands of years. The combination of apples with cinnamon and sugar likely originated from traditional apple pie recipes, where these flavors are commonly used. Over time, variations of this dish have emerged, including skillet-cooked versions like this one.
Components:
To make Skillet Cinnamon Apples, you’ll need the following components:
Ingredients:
- 4-5 apples (choose sweet varieties like Gala or Fuji)
- 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons of brown sugar (or a healthier alternative like honey or maple syrup)
- 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
- A pinch of salt
- 1/4 cup of water
- Optional toppings: chopped nuts, vanilla ice cream, or yogurt
Steps to Prepare:
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Prepare the Apples:
- Wash, peel (if desired), and core the apples. Then, slice them into even, thin pieces. Slicing the apples uniformly ensures even cooking.
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Cooking:
- Heat a skillet or a large, deep pan over medium-high heat. Add the butter and let it melt and bubble.
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Add Apples and Sugar:
- Once the butter is melted, add the sliced apples to the skillet. Sprinkle the brown sugar (or your chosen sweetener), ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt over the apples.
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Sauté:
- Stir the apples gently to coat them with the butter, sugar, and cinnamon mixture. Sauté the apples for about 2-3 minutes until they start to soften slightly.
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Add Water:
- Pour in the 1/4 cup of water. This helps create a delicious cinnamon-flavored sauce and prevents the apples from sticking to the skillet.
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Simmer:
- Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the skillet, and let the apples simmer for approximately 10-15 minutes or until they become tender. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
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Serve:
- Once the apples are soft and have absorbed the flavors, remove them from heat. You can serve them hot as a comforting dessert or side dish. Optionally, top with chopped nuts, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a dollop of yogurt for added texture and flavor.
Preparation Time:
The total time needed to prepare Skillet Cinnamon Apples typically ranges from 20 to 30 minutes, making it a quick and delightful treat for any occasion.
Enjoy your Skillet Cinnamon Apples, and may they bring a smile to your face with their delightful taste and aroma!
Certainly, here are the nutrition facts and health information for Skillet Cinnamon Apples (Healthy), per serving:
Nutrition Facts (Approximate values for one serving, without optional toppings):
- Calories: Approximately 150-200 calories
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 40-45 grams
- Sugars: Approximately 30-35 grams (from natural sugars in apples and added sugar)
- Dietary Fiber: Approximately 4-6 grams
- Fat: Approximately 3-4 grams
- Protein: Approximately 1-2 grams
Health Information:
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Low in Fat: Skillet Cinnamon Apples are relatively low in fat, thanks to the small amount of butter used for sautéing.
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Good Source of Fiber: These apples provide a good amount of dietary fiber, which is essential for digestive health and can help keep you feeling full and satisfied.
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Natural Sugars: The primary source of sugar in this recipe comes from the natural sugars found in apples. While there’s some added sugar, it’s relatively minimal compared to many desserts.
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Vitamins and Minerals: Apples are a rich source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C and potassium. Vitamin C is essential for immune health, while potassium helps maintain healthy blood pressure.
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Antioxidants: Cinnamon is known for its antioxidant properties, which may help combat oxidative stress in the body.
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Moderation is Key: While this recipe is relatively healthy, it’s important to enjoy it in moderation. The added sugar and optional toppings can increase the calorie and sugar content. You can also consider using healthier sweeteners like honey or maple syrup as alternatives to brown sugar.
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Versatile Dish: Skillet Cinnamon Apples can be a nutritious dessert option or a side dish. They can be a healthier alternative to many high-calorie, high-fat desserts.
Keep in mind that the exact nutritional content may vary depending on the types of apples and sweeteners used. To make this dish even healthier, you can adjust the amount of sugar or choose natural sweeteners and opt for lower-fat toppings or skip them altogether. Enjoy this delightful treat while staying mindful of your dietary preferences and health goals.